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Reward cards can open up a world of potential benefits such as getting a free flight to a favourite holiday destination, getting cash back offer, or using your gift card to surprise a family member. However, before you get to this point you need to earn points. If you are wondering how you can build your points, our helpful guide can show you how you can maximise everyday purchases to help you gain points.
Read the fine print of your rewards program
Before we break down how you can flourish by swiping strategically to gain rewards, it is vital that you read your reward programs terms and conditions when it comes to earning points. Not all reward programs are created the same and can come with limitations that can affect the way you gain points. Some programs come point caps which limit how many points you can have, and there is usually an expiration date attached to most points. By not knowing what can help you gain points you could end up wasting money chasing points.
Use your card next time you fill up at the pump
Not everyone fly's all the time which is one of the quickest ways to gain points so frequent flyer programs have made it easier for reward card holders to be able to gain points while they are on the ground. You can earn points by presenting your reward card to pay for a fill up at Shell or BP. If you don’t want to use your credit card when it comes to filling up on petrol, you can use your prepaid debit card. Cards such as Coles flybuys and Velocity Rewards have debit cards that offer 1 reward every dollar that you spend.
Shop in store for legible purchases
Depending on the type of reward program that you have, you can head to the stores to shop for eligible purchases. The catch is that not everything your purchase in store can help you gain points. This is where reading the details of your program can come in handy. Keep in mind to compare your cards value for each point. Some will offer a point for every $1 spent while other cards will reward you a point for every $2 that you have spent.
Foot the bill next time you eat out
Next time you go out for a movie or have dinner with your loved ones offer to foot the bill. Reward cards have made it possible to earn as you dine out. Furthermore, some cards come with the feature of paying for a free bottle of wine when you eat at an affiliated restaurant. Always keep in mind to stick to what you can afford instead of splurging only to get little points in return.
Have an additional card holder
Most reward cards generally require that you spend a certain amount to access the points that come with it. This is something that card holders need to carefully consider before taking out a card. Adding an additional cardholder to your account can help you build up your points balance.
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This guide provides general information and does not consider your individual needs, finances or objectives. We do not make any recommendation or suggestion about which product is best for you based on your specific situation and we do not compare all companies in the market, or all products offered by all companies. It’s always important to consider whether professional financial, legal or taxation advice is appropriate for you before choosing or purchasing a financial product.
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